Jeffrey Donaldson

Posted by Jim on April 25, 2026

THE BELFAST TELEGRAPH:

Attorney General issues fresh warning about social media posts ahead of the Donaldson trial.

Jeffrey Donaldson leaves Newry Crown Court

Reporter

24 Apr 2026 2:48 PM

Northern Ireland’s Attorney General has issued a fresh warning around online commentary on court proceedings involving former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson.

Donaldson and his wife Eleanor are due to stand trial next month accused of historical sexual offences.

Dame Brenda King has issued a warning ahead of the trial, which is set to begin on May 26.

She said anyone who posts material that is in breach could find themselves in contempt of court, and facing up to two years in prison.

Jeffrey Donaldson (63) has pleaded not guilty to 18 alleged offences.

Eleanor Donaldson (59) of Dublinhill Road, Dromore, Co Down, faces charges of aiding and abetting, which she denies.

The alleged offences span a time period between 1985 and 2008. There are two alleged victims.

Jeffrey Donaldson, the MP for Lagan Valley from 1997 to 2024, was arrested and charged at the end of March 2024.

He resigned as DUP leader and was suspended from the party after he was charged.

The Attorney General said: “As mentioned in my previous Media Advisory Notice I am concerned about the potential impact of social media postings and commentary on members of any jury as the hearing date for the trial approaches.

“I would remind members of the public that they can be found in contempt of court if something they publish creates a substantial risk that the course of justice in the criminal proceedings would be seriously impeded or prejudiced.

“A sentence of up to two years imprisonment can be imposed.

“Users of social media should therefore take great care before posting or re posting clips or commentary and may wish to delete material at this point rather than risk proceedings being brought against them.

“Further, it is a criminal offence to identify the complainants, who must remain anonymous.”